Solar energy collection apparatus

ABSTRACT

Solar energy concentrating apparatus having an array of lenses to receive and concentrate the solar radiation towards a plurality of stationary targets. The lenses are supported on a moveable structure to enable the lenses to move laterally in the east-west and north-south directions. Each lens of the array is also configured to rotate about an axis extending in the north-south direction. Drive means is coupled to a plurality of lateral and rotational movements mechanisms to orientate the lenses towards the target as the sun moves throughout the day and year.

The present invention relates to solar energy collection apparatus andmore particularly, to a concentrating type collector that uses a lens toconcentrate the solar rays.

Solar energy collection devices are well established and may becategorised according to two types. Non-concentrating collectors receivethe solar radiation directly, as parallel rays of radiation. Suchdevices typically comprise a solar panel, or array of photovoltaic cellsthat may be heated and configured to transmit and store the solarradiation.

A further type of solar collector is referred to as a concentrating typewhich reflects or refracts the radiation using lenses or minorassemblies so as to concentrate the rays onto a target as a more focusedsolar footprint.

WO 2009/134208 discloses a solar energy collector that utilises a lensto focus the solar radiation and is mounted via a cradle with aplurality of solar cells fixed to the cradle base to receive the lightfrom the lens.

WO 2009/125334 discloses a solar energy generating device having a fixedorientation concentrator, in the form of a Fresnel lens of the new focusand linear solar collector mounted parallel to the focal point of thelens and configured to move in any direction perpendicular to the linearfocus in order to attempt to obviate the need for additional orientatingmechanisms for the lens.

WO 2005/057092 discloses a solar energy collection system in which alens is used to focus the solar radiation onto a receiving body toconvert the radiation into electrical and/or heat energy. A pivotingstructure is provided to enable rotation of the target in the east/westdirection in order to track the concentrated radiation transmittedthrough the lens.

US 2009/0272425 discloses a concentrating solar receiver that utilises aFresnel lens to both reflect and refract solar radiation to a thermalcycle engine that coverts the solar energy to mechanical energy which inturn is converted to electrical energy. Movement of the solar receiveris controlled by a sun tracking sensor and actuation provided by avertical and horizontal drive motor.

WO 2009/002168 discloses an array of rotatably mounted lenses forconcentrating solar radiation onto collectors that are coupled to a heattransfer liquid. The liquid, when heated by the solar radiation may beguided through a heat exchanger to generate steam for electricitygeneration. The array of lenses is configured to rotate about twoperpendicular axes to track the position of the sun throughout the day.

However, there is a continued need for apparatus that will efficientlyharness the solar radiation throughout the day and year whilst being ofa design sufficiently robust to withstand weathering by the elementswhilst maximising the use of the incident radiation.

Accordingly, the inventors provide solar energy concentrating andsupport apparatus configured to harness and concentrate solar energysuitable for use in regions that frequently experience an abundance ofsunlight and are exposed environments. The apparatus is also configuredto withstand weathering by the elements without loss of energyconversion efficiency.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is providedsolar energy concentrating apparatus comprising: an array of lenses toreceive and to concentrate solar radiation towards a plurality oftargets; at least one lens support structure to moveably mount each lensof the array to receive the solar radiation; a first lateral movementmechanism to move the lenses in a first lateral direction relative tothe targets; a second lateral movement mechanism to move the lenses in asecond lateral direction relative to the targets; a third lateralmovement mechanism to move the lenses in a direction up and downrelative to the targets; a first rotational movement mechanism to rotatethe lenses about a first axis extending substantially in the secondlateral direction; and at least one drive means to drive the lensmovement mechanisms.

Preferably, the apparatus further comprises a second rotational movementmechanism to rotate each lens about a second axis extending in the firstlateral direction. The axes of rotation of the in the second rotationaldirection is substantially perpendicular to the axes of rotation of alens in the first rotational direction.

Optionally, the lens support structure comprises a primary supporthaving a circumferential or peripheral ring type frame to mount thelens, a support shaft extending centrally through the lens and supportcables extending from the central shaft to the outer ring frame.Additionally, the lens support structure may further comprise asecondary support to mount the primary support, the secondary supportcomprising cables extending around the primary support. Preferably, thecables of the primary and secondary support are pre-stressed such thatwhen placed under tension the cables are resistant to twisting, elongateextension and distortion due to incident mechanical forces.

Preferably, the array of lenses is arranged in rows of lenses to form agrid network of lenses with rows in the first lateral direction and rowsin the second lateral direction.

Preferably, each lens of the array comprises a plurality of Fresnellenses extending in at least two substantially parallel planes, oneabove the other so as to provide an air flow gap between the planes ofthe lenses. Additionally the lenses may be constructed from individualsections of Fresnel lenses according to a staggered or multi-planarconfiguration to provide airflow vents or ducts through the assembledlens to minimise the perpendicular force component of the incident windwhen installed and in use. Fins or other air flow directing elements mayalso be attached to the lens to assist with deflecting or channellingair. Such fins may also be attached to other components of theapparatus.

Preferably, the first lateral movement mechanism comprises cablesextending in the first (east-west) direction and pulley wheels and/orspools and stanchions positioned at the end of each row of lenses in thefirst (east-west) direction, the stanchions coupled to one of the cablesin the east-west direction such that when the drive means is actuatedthe stanchions pivot in the east-west direction and the lenses movelaterally in the first (east-west) direction. Also preferred is that thesecond lateral movement mechanism comprises cables extending in thesecond (north-south) direction and pulley wheels and/or spools andstanchions positioned at the end of each row of lenses in the second(north-south) direction, the stanchions coupled to one of the cables inthe second (north-south) direction such that when the drive means isactuated the stanchions pivot in the second (north-south) direction andthe lenses move laterally in the second (north-south) direction. Alsopreferred is that the third lateral movement mechanism comprises cablesand pulley wheels and/or spools. Also preferred is that the firstrotational movement mechanism comprises cables and pulley wheels and/orspools.

The present apparatus is configured to orientate the lenses continuouslytowards the stationary targets or target such that the focal point ofthe lenses and the concentrated solar radiation is always directed tothe same region. This avoids consideration of means to move the targetsto receive the concentrated solar radiation. Also, the size of thetarget bodies may be minimised to reduce the footprint of the apparatusby always concentrating the solar radiation to the same region viamovement of the lenses in the three lateral coordinates (x, y and z) andone or two rotational axis.

Preferably, the second rotational movement mechanism comprises cablesextending substantially in the second (north-south) direction and pulleywheels and/or spools.

The present apparatus may comprise any suitable means to provide lateralactuation of the lenses in the x, y and z coordinates and rotationalmovement in the two axes, as will be appreciated by those skilled in theart. Accordingly, the drive for the movement mechanisms may alsocomprise standard components including electric, electromagnetic, solaror other fuel driven motors. Where the present invention is implementedwith cables the drive means for the first, second and third lateralmovement mechanisms and the first and second rotational movementmechanisms may comprise a motorised winch, pulley wheel or spool toshorten and lengthen each of the respective cables. Reference withinthis specification to ‘cable’ includes all manner of relatively thinmember including specifically a cord, flex, lead, wire, chain, rope andthe like. Preferably, the cables comprise wound steel cables includingspecifically stainless steel cables that may be coated to improveresistance to weathering and corrosion.

As will be appreciated, any support structure may be used to suspend thelenses above the ground and the respective targets. Such suspensionsystems may comprise entirely rigid structures including for exampleinterconnected steel girders to form a three dimensional framestructure. Alternatively or in addition, the lens support structure maycomprise a catenary or other moveable suspension mechanism.

Preferably, the lens support structure comprises a crane block mountedbetween the lenses in the second (north-south) direction, the craneblock being connected to the cables of the first, second and thirdlateral movement mechanisms to translate movement imparted by the drivemeans to move the lenses of the array. The crane block may comprise oneor a plurality of motors to drive one or a plurality of pulley wheels orspools to drive indirectly rotation of the lens about at least one axis.Preferably, the crane block is connected to the support structure and inparticular the secondary support structure that mounts the primarysupport structure via at least one shaft, each lens configured to rotateabout each respective shaft in the first (east-west) direction.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provideda method of concentrating solar radiation comprising: receiving andconcentrating solar radiation towards of a plurality of targets using anarray of lenses; supporting the array of lenses using a moveable supportstructure; moving the array of lenses in a first lateral directionrelative to the targets using a first lateral movement mechanism; movingthe array of lenses in a second lateral direction relative to thetargets using a second lateral movement mechanism; moving the lenses ina direction up and down relative to the targets using a third lateralmovement mechanism; rotating the lenses about a first axis extendingsubstantially in the second lateral direction using a first rotationalmovement mechanism; and driving the movement mechanisms to move thelenses in the lateral and rotational directions.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is providedsolar energy collection apparatus comprising: solar energy concentratingapparatus as described herein; a conduit network to contain a gas phaseworking fluid and allow the fluid to flow in contact with the targetssuch that the working fluid is heated by the targets.

Preferably, the collection apparatus further comprises a heat storagedevice connected in fluid communication to the targets by the conduitnetwork to receive the heated working fluid, the storage devicecomprising a heat storage material to store the heat energy receivedfrom the working fluid. Optionally, the conduit network comprises metal,ceramic and/or clay based piping. Optionally, the material of thestorage device comprises a natural mineral such as stone or rock.Alternatively the storage material may comprise a synthetic aggregatesuch as concrete and the like.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention there isprovided apparatus for converting solar energy to electrical energycomprising: solar energy concentrating apparatus as described herein;solar energy collection apparatus as described herein; a heat exchangerconnected in fluid communication with the conduit network to receive theheated working fluid and to transfer the received heat energy; a turbinecoupled to a heat exchanger; an electric generator coupled to theturbine to generate electricity.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided amethod of supplying electricity generated by the apparatus as describedherein to an electricity network and to a method of delivering theelectricity via the network to a plurality of users.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is providedsolar energy concentrating apparatus having a lens support structurecomprising: an annular or polygonal frame configured to surround aconcentrating lens at an outer perimeter region of the lens; a pluralityof radial spokes mounted at the frame and extending from the frame to amount positioned substantially centrally relative to the annular frameand the radial spokes.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is providedsolar energy concentrating apparatus having a support frame to mount aconcentrating lens, the lens comprising: at least one first lens plateextending in a first plane; at least one second lens plate extending ina second plane, the second lens plate being spatially separated from thefirst lens plate in a direction perpendicular to the planes to provide agap between the first and second lens plates.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention there is providedsolar energy concentrating apparatus to support a concentrating lens,the apparatus comprising: a plurality of elongate support memberscomprising one or a plurality of cables extending between a first mountand a second mount; wherein a separation distance between the members ina direction perpendicular to the direction between the first and secondmounts increases away from each of the first and second mounts to reacha maximum separation region: wherein a concentrating lens mountedsubstantially at the maximum separation region and is suspended betweenthe first and second mounts by the support members.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention there is providedsolar energy concentrating apparatus to mount at least one concentratinglens to direct concentrated solar radiation from the lens onto a target,the apparatus comprising: a moveable stanchion mounted at a first end bya pivoting or moveable joint to allow a second end of the stanchion tomove laterally in x, y and z coordinates relative to the first end; atleast one lens connecting member extending between a region towards thesecond end of the stanchion and a region close to or at lens such thatmovement of the second end of the stanchion is translated to provide acorresponding movement of the lens.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention there is providedsolar energy concentrating apparatus to move at least one concentratinglens to direct the concentrated solar radiation from the lens onto atarget, the apparatus comprising: a suspension system configured tosuspend at least one lens above the ground, at least part of thesuspension system extending above the lens relative to the ground; acrane mechanism positioned so as to raise and lower the lens relative tothe suspension system.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention there isprovided solar energy concentrating apparatus to move at least oneconcentrating lens to direct concentrated solar radiation from the lensonto a target, the apparatus comprising: a lens support structure tomount a lens moveably relative to a target; a first elongate trackmounted above the ground and extending in a first direction; a secondelongate track mounted above the ground and extending in a seconddirection transverse or perpendicular to the first direction; whereinthe lens, via the support structure, is capable of movement laterally inthe first direction along the first track and in the second directionalong the second track such that movement of the lens along the firstand second tracks is configured to orientate the lens to directconcentrated solar radiation from the lens onto the target.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention there is providedsolar energy concentrating apparatus to move at least one concentratinglens to direct concentrated solar radiation from the lens to a target,the apparatus comprising: a suspension system configured to suspend atleast one lens above the ground; the suspension system comprising: aplurality of columns upstanding from the ground; a beam or catenarysystem mounted upon the columns and capable of suspending the lens abovethe ground.

A specific implementation of the present invention will now bedescribed, by way of example only, and with reference to theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of a lens support structure configuredto support a lens used to concentrate solar radiation onto a targetaccording to a specific implementation;

FIG. 2 is a cross section through A-A of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the support structure of FIG. 1 withthe lens rotated through 90°;

FIG. 4 is perspective view of a lens comprising a plurality of Fresnellenses supported by a cabled structure according to a specificimplementation of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the lens and support structure of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is the cross section through A-A of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of a support cable mounting bracket;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a cable securing mechanism for thecables of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a further plan view of the lens support structure of FIG. 5;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a region of the lens support structure of FIG.9;

FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of a section of the lens through A-A ofFIG. 12;

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a section of the lens support structure ofFIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a more detailed plan view of a region of the lens of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a lens plate mounting bracket of FIG.13;

FIG. 15 is a side elevation view of a lens plate mounted between twomounting brackets of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the axial support rod of FIG.5 that provides annual rotational movement of the lens assembly;

FIG. 17 is a further side elevation view of the lens support structureof FIG. 1;

FIG. 18 is a cross sectional side elevation view through the lens andaxial support rods of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the lens and rotatable pulleys toprovide axial rotation of the lens about two axis corresponding toannual and diurnal rotational movement;

FIG. 20 is a schematic plan view of two lenses interconnected by pulleysand belts configured to provide annual angular movement of the lens;

FIG. 21 is a side elevation view of the assembly of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a further side elevation view of four lens assemblies coupledtogether for cooperative rotation about the support rods of FIG. 18 toprovide annual movement;

FIG. 23 is a side elevation view of the lens support structure of FIG. 1further illustrating the biaxial rotational movement of the lens withinthe support structure;

FIG. 24 illustrates a plurality of lenses and support structures coupledtogether to provide simultaneous rotational motion about axis 107 ofFIG. 1 corresponding to diurnal movement;

FIG. 25 illustrates a grid network of rows of lenses and supportstructures illustrating both axes of rotation corresponding to bothannual and diurnal movement;

FIG. 26 illustrates an end elevation view of a plurality of lens supportstructures of FIG. 1 configured to move in the vertical plane viapulleys, belts and winches;

FIG. 27 is a further end elevation view of the lens support structure ofFIG. 1 mounted within an A-frame support, which in turn is mounted upona diurnal rail which in turn is mounted upon a perpendicular extendingannual rail;

FIG. 28 is a side elevation view of the lens support structure and railsof FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is a perspective of the lens support structures and diurnal andannual rails of FIGS. 27 and 28;

FIG. 30 is a plan cross section view of the crane block illustrated inFIG. 26 and mounted between each lens support structure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 31 illustrates schematically a plurality of lenses mounted uponmovable stanchions for movement in the east-west direction;

FIG. 32 is a schematic illustration of an array of lenses mountedaccording to a grid configuration, with each lens moveable in both theeast-west and north-south directions;

FIG. 33 is an end elevation view of the lens support structure of FIG.27 in which the lenses are moveable via the stanchions of FIG. 31;

FIG. 34 is a side elevation view of the lens movement apparatus of FIG.33;

FIG. 35 is a schematic perspective view of a plurality of lens supportstructures of FIG. 1 suspended from a cable system supported by verticalcolumns;

FIG. 36 is a schematic side elevation view of a further embodiment ofthe lens suspension apparatus of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37A is a plan view of the lens suspensions system of FIG. 36;

FIG. 37B is a plan view of a section of the lens suspension system ofFIG. 37A;

FIG. 38 is an end elevation view of the lens support and suspensionsystem;

FIG. 39 is a further end elevation view of the suspension system of FIG.38;

FIG. 40 is a schematic side elevation view of a further embodiment ofthe lens suspension system of FIG. 36;

FIG. 41 is a schematic plan view of a further lens suspension system ofFIG. 37;

FIG. 42 is a schematic side elevation view of a further embodiment ofthe lens suspension system of FIG. 36;

FIG. 43 illustrates schematically an end elevation view of a furtherlens suspension system of FIG. 39; and

FIG. 44 illustrates schematically components of a heat energy transferand storage apparatus coupled to heat exchanger and electricitygenerator according to a specific embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a lens 106 is mounted within a primarysupport 111 which in turn is mounted within a secondary support 100.Primary support comprises an elongate shaft 109 extending perpendicularand through the centre of lens 106. A plurality of cables 110, that arepreferably tensioned or pre-stressed, extend between shaft 109 andregions of first side 403 of lens 106 and a second side 404.

The primary support 111 is mounted within secondary support 100 thatalso comprises a plurality of tensioned, pre-stressed cables 102 thatextend radially outward from common point A to extend over two annularrings or polygonal frame 108 that extend around primary support 111.Cables 102 extend over each rigid polygonal or annular frame 108 andthen converge to a second common point A aligned axially with the firstcommon point A. Primary support 111 is mounted at secondary support 100via a rotatable shaft 400 with one end of shaft 400 rotatably connectedto the lens 106 and a second end 401 rigidly connected to secondarysupport 100. Accordingly, lens 106 is cable of rotation about axis 103.Shaft 400 and lens 106 are held in position via suitable cables 104 asdescribed further with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18. Lens 106 is alsoconfigured for rotation about axis 107 extending between common cablepoints A, as described with reference to FIGS. 23 to 25.

Cables 102 and 110 may comprise separate cables or may compriserespective single cables that are wound around the respective frames andmounts to create the seemingly multi-cable construction.

Referring to FIG. 3, a crane block 300 is positioned at the commonpoints A between each primary 111 and secondary 100 support structurethat are coupled end to end as illustrated in FIG. 29. The crane block300 and accordingly lens support structures 111 and 100 are suspended ina vertical direction by suspension cables 301 discussed furtherreferring to FIG. 26.

FIGS. 5 to 15 illustrate components and construction of the lens 106.The primary lens support 111 comprises a hollow annular tube 500 dividedinto circumferential or perimeter sections that are secured together byconventional means such as bolts, screws, welding or other frictionalcontact to form a wheel structure having an outer frame 500. Cablespokes 507 extend from the circumferential support 500 to a commoncentral mounting region 510. Each tensioned, pre-stressed cable 507 issecured at support 500 via a mounting bracket 501 that encapsulatessupport 500. A plurality of mounting brackets 501 extendcircumferentially around support 500 to mount each of the plurality ofcable spokes 507. When orientated in the substantially horizontal planeas illustrated in FIG. 1, the weight of lens 106 and the structuralrigidity of the lens assembly is supported, in part, by the transversecables 110 that also extend between mount bracket 501 and the shaft 109(central mount 510) aligned perpendicular or transverse to the generalplane of the lens 106.

According to the present embodiment, a plurality of circumferentiallyextending tie cables 509 extend between each of the spoke cables 507 andare mounted upon respective plate mounts 508 positioned radially fromcentre 109 to the outer circumferential support 500. According tofurther specific embodiments, the lens support structure comprisingouter frame 500, central mount 510 and radial spokes 507 does notcomprise the connecting tie cables 509.

Referring to FIG. 5, a shaft mount 505 is positioned at twodiametrically opposed regions of circumferential mount 500 to receiveand house one end of a respective shaft 400. The inboard end of shaft400 is mounted within a bearing assembly 503 having suitable bearings503 to enable the lens assembly 106 to rotate axially about shaft 400.Shaft 400 is mounted at end 401 via mount 502 secured to annular rings108 as described further referring to FIG. 16.

Referring to FIG. 8, each cable 507, 509, 110 maybe anchored in positionvia a male 800 and female 801 lock assembly to secure each cable 507,509, 110 when placed under tensile load as required to impart structuralrigidity to the lens assembly 106.

FIGS. 9 to 15 further illustrate the securement of lens plates withinthe lens assembly 106. A plurality of lens plates 506 are assembled toform a Fresnel lens and are mounted between spoke cables 507 and tiecables 509. The lens plates 506 are secured in position between fourrespective plate mounts 508.

Referring to FIG. 10, according to one embodiment a notch 1001 may beprovided within each lens plate 506 to abut against an outer region ofplate mount 508. Alternatively, suitable mounting pins, screws, bolts,rivets or ties 1000 may be used to rigidly connect each lens plate 506in position relative to cables 507 and 509. Suitable deformable spacers900 may be positioned at the outermost region between lens plates 506and circumferential support 500, referring to FIG. 9, to avoid damage orunwanted movement to lens plates 506.

Referring for FIG. 13, similar deformable or resiliently compressiblebuffers 1300 may be positioned between opposed mating edges 1301 of lensplates 506 again to avoid damage due to any unintentional movement ofthe lens assembly components.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 14, the lens plates 506 are staggeredaccording to an alternating sequence above and below tie cables 509 soas to create an air or wind flow gap between planes A and B alignedparallel to each plate 506. Accordingly, the lens assembly 106 via ventspacings A-B is configured to withstand wind forces perpendicular andtransverse to the plane of lens plate 506 when installed in use aboveground level. According to the embodiment of FIGS. 11, 14 and 15, eachplate mount 508 is formed as a frame comprising opposed sidewalls 1401,1405 separated at each respective end by opposed upper 1402 and lower1403 end plates. A notch or recess 1400 is formed in each sidewall 1404,1406 extending from face 1406 and similarly a second notch or recess1404 is also formed in each sidewall 1401, 1405 from the opposedopposite face 1405. Notches 1400 are formed in a lower half of plate 508and notches 1404 are formed in an upper half of plate 508. The notches1400 and 1404 are aligned and sized to accommodate the edge regions oflens plates 506 to secure them in position to extend from each platemount 508 from a first side 1406 and second side 1405 spaced apart inthe vertical direction. Transverse shaft cables 110 extend from upperplate 1402 and lower plate 1403 but are positioned off centre withrespect to central vertical plane 1407. As illustrated in FIG. 15, whentension is applied to shaft cables 110, each plate 508 twists 1500 suchthat each lens plate 506 is braced against each respective notch 1404,1404 to hold the plates 506 in position.

Referring to FIG. 16, each shaft 400 extending diametrically fromcircumferential support 500 provides rotational connection between theprimary support 111 and secondary support 100. Each shaft 400 forms aconnection between the circumferential support 500 and the two rigidframes 108 via side shaft cables 104 and 1600. In particular, fourcables 104 extend in the same plane and are secured to the lens end ofthe shaft 1601 from a region of each annular ring 108. Additionally, afurther four cables 1600 also extend from regions of each annular ring108 towards outboard second end 1602 of shaft 400 furthest from lensassembly 106. Each cable 104 and 1600 may be pre-tensioned or stressedso that when assembled under tensile load, the cable assembly asillustrated in FIG. 16 is configured to resist bending or twistingforces. FIG. 17 further illustrates the housing of the primary support111 within the secondary support 100 that mounts the lens assembly 106via shaft 400 using four elongate cables (formed as separate cables orfrom a single cable that is wound back on itself) that extend from thepolygonal or circumferential support frames 108 and converge to each endmount A as shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 18 further illustrates a further embodiment of the lens supportstructure 100 and 111 that does not comprise the two polygonal or annualsupport frames 108. As described earlier, frames 108 are configured toneutralise or balance the compressive forces that are created anddirected inwardly by cables 102 towards the lens 106. Without the frames108, and in order to withstand the compressive forces imparted by cables102, 1904 that extend over and about primary support 111, thrustbearings 1800 are accommodated within bearing assembly 503.Additionally, by imparting the required tensile load to each cable 102,1904 any compressive forces exerted upon lens assembly 106 can beequilibrated or minimised. The cables 102 are separated and supported bya rigid frame section 1800, being effectively a section of larger frame108.

Referring to FIG. 19, lens assembly 106 is capable of rotation aboutaxis 103 as bearing assembly 503 rotates about shaft 400. This angularrotation 1905 enables lens assembly 106 to track the position of the sunaccording to its annual movement. Lens 106 is also configured to rotate1906 about axis 107 to follow the diurnal movement of the sun. Accordingto the specific embodiment, the annual rotational movement 1905 isprovided by pulley 1900 mounted at lens 106 and driven by pulley belt1901. The diurnal movement 1906 is provided by pulley 1902 mounted ateach end of the secondary support 100 (illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3),with rotation of pulley 1902 provided by belt 1903.

FIGS. 20 to 22 further illustrate the mechanism for imparting rotationof lens 106 about shaft 400 to provide annular tracking movement of thesun. The collective rotational movement of each lens 106 is achieved bycoupling the annual rotational pulleys 1900. Accordingly, a plurality oflenses 106 may be connected in series and rotatably adjustedcoincidentally via a common drive motor (not shown) mounted at craneblock 300 and configured to drive driving pulley 2009 detailed furtherreferring to FIG. 30. Each lens comprises a single 1900 or dual pulley2001 to receive driving belts 1901, 2000, 2003 that interconnectneighbouring lenses within a row of lenses to provide simultaneous or‘ganged’ rotation about axis 103. According to the specific embodiment,only one drive pulley 2009 is required for each row of lenses with otherpulleys 2009 within the row providing stabilisation of the intermediatebelts 2000, 2003. However, according to further embodiments suitabledrive motors may be provided at each crane block 300 to drive eachpulley 2009.

A region 2008 of each lens is ‘cut-away’ or is devoid of lens plates 506and support 500 such that the body of lens 106 does not interfere orcontact the drive belts 2000, 2003, 1901 when each lens 106 is rotated1905 about axis 103 as illustrated in FIG. 19. As perimeter frame 500 iscontinuous, belts 1901, 2000, 2003 extend above or below the perimetersection 500 so as to effectively extend through the lens and frameassembly as illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21. Accordingly, each lens 106is capable of achieving a minimum angle of inclination relative to thehorizontal that corresponds to approximately 8°. Rotation beyond thislower limit would provide unwanted contact between frame 500 and belts1901, 2000, 2003. According to further embodiments, each region 2010 offrame 500 that is orientated immediately above or below the belts 1901,2000, 2003, is smooth, profiled or in some other way configured towithstand contact with the drive belts such that lens 106 may be rotatedto the horizontal position and capable of rotation through 180° and notthrough approximately 50° (according to the embodiments of FIGS. 20 to21).

FIG. 21 is a side elevation view through A-A of FIG. 20. Via rotation ofdrive pulley 2009 each lens pulley 1900, 2001 is rotated to impartrotation 1905 of lens 106 to track annual movement.

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate the mechanism for providing diurnalrotational movement 1906 of lens 106 via rotational pulleys 1902positioned at each end of the secondary support 100. Each pulley 1902 ismounted at shaft 2301 between crane block 300 and a cable frame plate2300 corresponding to positions A of FIG. 1. Plate 2300 is of asufficient diameter to avoid unwanted twisting of the secondary support100 as the assembly 100 is rotated 1906 about axis 107.

FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate an array and network of interconnected lenses106 and assemblies 111, 100, arranged in rows, where each lens 106 isconfigured for biaxial rotation 1905 and 1906. As illustrated, rotation1906 occurs in the north-south axis to provide diurnal tracking of thesun's movement during the day whilst rotation 1905 occurs in theeast-west axis and is optional to provide optimum annual tracking motionof the sun throughout the year.

FIG. 26 illustrates the apparatus configured to displace the lenses 106and primary and second supports 111, 100 in the vertical plane 2604.Each secondary support 100 is mounted at respective crane blocks 300 asillustrated in FIG. 3. Each crane block 300 comprises pulleys 2603 toreceived drive belt 301. Belt 301 also extends around crane pulleys 2602that are affixed or suspended in position from a suitable gantry orsuspension catenary as illustrated further in FIGS. 27 to 29 and 35 to43. Drive belt 301 is terminated towards its respective ends by asuitable winch or drive spool 2600, being for example a conventionalcable tensioner having a motor and drive pulley. Accordingly, as one orboth winches 2600 are actuated, belt 301 is affectively shortenedbetween winch end points 2600 to raise crane block 300 in the verticaldirection 2604 and accordingly displace lens 106 vertically upward. Areverse operation of winch 2600 accordingly lowers lens 106 in direction2604. To avoid unbalanced vertical displacement of each lens 106, eachcrane block 300 is independently driven by a respective winch 2600 orwinch pair. According to further specific embodiments, a series of lens106 and assemblies A, B, C and D may be raised and lowered verticallyvia a common drive belt 301 extending around each crane and/or pulleys2602. According to a yet further embodiment, the movement cablesassociated with assemblies A, B, C and D may be interfaced with commonwinches 2600 such that each row of assemblies A, B, C and D are actedupon by only one or two winches 2600.

FIGS. 27 to 29 illustrate a specific embodiment for suspending lensassembly 106 and for enabling lateral displacement in the north-southand east-west axes. Lens assembly 106 and primary and secondary supports111, 100 are mounted within two opposed A-frames 2707. The crane pulleys2602 are mounted at crane mount 2700 at the apex of frame 2707. TheA-frame 2707 also comprises feet extensions 2701 positioned at eachlower leg, with each foot comprising a pair of rollers 2702 to sit uponand roll over the surface of an elongate diurnal track or rail 2703extending in the east-west direction. The diurnal rail 2703 is in turnmounted upon an annual track or rail 2705 via similar feet and rollerassemblies 2704 located at the bottom of each A-frame 2701, 2702. Theannual rail 2705 is in turn mounted above the ground 2601 via supportstanchions 2706. Cables 2800 extend from the upper and lower regions ofdiurnal track 2703 so as to move the track laterally relative to theannual track 2705. Cables 2800 are connected to suitable drive means(not shown) to shorten and lengthen cables 2800 and provide the movementof track 2703.

FIG. 29 provides a schematic perspective view of the secondary supports100 and configured for east-west and north-south lateral movement viarails 2703 and 2705. FIG. 29 further illustrates the apparatus forenabling vertical movement of the secondary assemblies 100 via therespective belts 301 as described with reference to FIG. 26.

FIG. 30 illustrates the cross sectional plan view of the crane block 300and end region of secondary support 100. Each crane block pulley 2603 ismounted upon axle 3006 that is in turn mounted at crane block housing3004. The vertical displacement belt 301 extends around pulleys 2603 toprovide the vertical movement 2604. As illustrated, belt 301 passesaround the outside of A-frame 2707 according to the embodiment of FIGS.27 to 29.

According to the further embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 35to 43 the crane block assembly of FIG. 30 is the same however theA-frame 2707 is not required. As illustrated, crane block 300 comprisesa means to mount vertical movement pulleys 2603, the diurnal rotationalpulley 1902 and the annual rotational pulley 2009 that is mounted uponaxial 3005 which is in turn mounted at crane block 300 via arm 3000. Amotor (not shown) is also mounted at crane block 3000 and configured todrive rotation of pulley 2009 via rotation of axel 3005. Accordingly,this motor (not shown) drives annual rotation of the lens 106 about axis103. Additionally, the same or an additional motor (not shown) mountedat crane block 300 is configured to drive rotation of pulley 1902 whichin turn drives rotation of lens 106 in the diurnal axis of rotation1906.

Crane block 300 also provides a means to mount a lateral displacementcable 3007. Crane blocks 300, positioned at end or terminating positionsof a series (row) of interconnected lens supports 100, also mount alateral displacement cable 3201 extending in the north-south axis asillustrated in FIG. 32. Crane block 300 therefore provides a hub forconnection to the various mechanisms for providing lateral east-west (x)and north-south (y) movement; diurnal rotation about axis 103; annualrotation about axis 107 and vertical displacement (z) 2603 perpendicularto the x and y movement planes.

FIGS. 31 and 32 further illustrate the components to provide lateraleast-west and north-south translational motion of the lenses 106 andassemblies 111, 100. Each lens assembly 106 is coupled in the east-westdirection by lateral displacement cables 3007 that extend from eachcrane block 300 mounted between each secondary support 100. Cable 3007terminates at a region of a winch assembly 3102 that comprises asuitable motor and spool 3103. Cable 3007 from a terminal crane block300 passes over a curved surface 3101 of stanchion 3100 to be receivedat winch 3102 which is in turn mounted at the ground via mount 3104.Actuation of spool 3103 provides pivoting movement 3105 about pivotpoint 3106 (being a universal, ball or knuckle joint) mounted at theground 2601. Accordingly, lenses 106 are configured to move laterally inthe east-west direction in response to actuation of the winch assembly3102. Similarly, a north-south lateral displacement cable 3201 extendsfrom a terminal crane block 300 and is supported by pivotally mountedstanchion 3200 configured to pivot 3203 to provide the lateralnorth-south lateral movement of the lenses 106 as described withreference to FIG. 31 (in the east-west direction).

As will be appreciated, each winch assembly 3102 may be controlledelectronically so as to automate diurnal and annular lateral movement ofthe lenses 106 specific to a particular geographical location and therelative sun motion to ensure that the solar radiation 3107 concentratedby each lens 106 is focused towards each respective stationary target3100 and that the intensity of the radiation incident at target 3100 isnot diminished or any reduction minimised by appropriate lens movement.The present apparatus is configured to orientate the lenses continuouslythroughout the day and year to concentrate and focus the solar radiationtowards a single region (target 3100). That is, the focal position ofthe lenses does not change in the lateral east-west and north-southdirection, nor does it change in the vertical direction. Accordingly,the target area may be relatively small and no consideration needs to begiven to coordinated movement of the target in response to movement ofthe lenses and/or sun position.

As will be appreciated, the present apparatus is configured for manualand automated electronic control of the various drive components so asto provide computer and electronic control and actuation of the lateraleast-west, north-south displacement; the vertical displacement 2604 andthe annular and diurnal rotational movement of each lens assembly 106.Individual electronic control may be provided for each type of lateraland rotational drive means. Alternatively, a common electronic controlmay be provided to regulate all mechanical components. Moreover,actuation sensors (not shown) may also be provided and positioned atregions of the apparatus to monitor the imparted motion to the variouscomponents. Such movement sensing may then be coupled to the electroniccontrol to provide diagnostic assessment, performance monitoring andautomatic correction in the event of any undesired movement. Forexample, auto-correction via the electronic control may be required tocompensate for unwanted movement due to wind forces incident at theapparatus. In addition to motion sensors, the apparatus may furthercomprise thermal, humidity, wind speed, air pressure, UV and other solarradiation sensors (not shown) to provide data to the electronic controlwhich may then initiate instruction and control of the mechanicalcomponents in response. In particular, diode sensors (for example, foursensors) may be positioned at the region of the target to determine ifthe concentrated solar radiation form the lens is appropriately directedtowards the target for optimum performance and to receive the maximumamount of solar radiation. As will be appreciated, the electroniccontrol is network-configured to provide geographically remotemonitoring, control and information/data exchange. The drive motorsrequired to drive translational (horizontal and vertical) and rotationalmovement may be powered by suitable photovoltaic cells and/orconventional electrical motors.

FIGS. 33 and 34 illustrate the lateral displacement of the lensassemblies 106 according to the embodiment of FIGS. 27 to 29 in whichthe lenses 106 are mounted within respective A-frames 2707. Asillustrated, each lens 306 is configured to move over an imaginarysection of a sphere surface 3300 corresponding to the motion path ofstanchion 3100 that also pivot over imaginary sphere surface 3105. Thismotion is achieved via coordinated control of the various translationaland rotational movements of the apparatus in the x, y and z coordinates.

Accordingly, each lens 106 is capable of movement through approximately140° (diurnal rotation) in order to track the daily movement of the sun.A second diurnal (translational) motion in an east-west direction alongdiurnal beam 2703 further compensates for the movement of the sun duringthe day to ensure a maximum concentration of solar radiation 3107 atstationary target 3100. Vertical movement of the lens 106 is alsorequired during this diurnal translation and rotational motion and thisis achieved via cable 301 and associated cranes or winches 2600described with reference to FIG. 26.

A first annual (translational) movement of lenses 106 occurs via annualrail 2705. A second annual (rotational) motion optionally also occursvia rotation of each lens 106 about pivot axis 103. This rotation isprovided through approximately 50° and corresponds to the latitudealignment of the lens when initially installed at a particulargeographical location. An alternative arrangement may simply involve aninitial manual angular adjustment of each lens 106 so as to correctlyalign for the geographical latitude when the apparatus is initiallyinstalled. According to this further embodiment, the focal position ofthe lenses may be adjusted manually or automatically to compensate forthe annual solar motion to ensure sufficient concentrated solarradiation 3107 is incident at targets 3100. However, and as will beappreciated, rotation of the lens about two axis is beneficial tominimise the force component perpendicular to the plane of the lenscreated by the incident wind. The second rotational motion therefore maybe optionally employed to minimise the force on the apparatus due to thewind and reduce any possible damage or unwanted movement of theapparatus.

The present lens and supporting structure assembly is specificallydesigned to withstand wind forces generated from wind speeds of up toapproximately 20 mph. The use of cables is particularly advantageous as,when placed under tension and according to the present structuralarrangement, provide a very robust lens support assembly whilstminimising the surface area against which the wind force is incident.Therefore, a reasonable proportion of the wind may pass through the lensassembly as described referring to FIG. 11 such that the lens itself andnot its support structure provide the largest resistance to the wind.Accordingly, the mechanical stress imparted to the entire assembly fromthe wind is minimised. The use of high strength cables is alsoeconomically attractive as this requires less metal to create the lenssupport structure with regard to conventional more cumbersome apparatus.

To compensate for thermal expansion when exposed to large temperaturevariation, that will be experienced when the present apparatus ispositioned for use in a hot daytime but cold night time environment,such as a desert and the like, all or most cables used in the presentapparatus are tensioned or pre-stressed, to for example, 138 MPa, foundto maintain the required tension for an approximate 60° C. temperaturechange.

According to a specific implementation, each lens 106 comprising theplurality of individual Fresnel lenses 506 is assembled according toconventional construction methods. Each lens 106 may be 7 to 10 metresin diameter. Such a lens 106 is configured for use with a target 3100with a 30 cm to 50 cm diameter target window where, for example, thetarget comprises a 60 cm diameter pipe (not shown) to accommodate a heattransfer fluid forming part of a network or system associated with aheat store, turbine and/or heat exchanger as described with reference toInternational patent application no. PCT/GB2010/050536, which is herebyincorporated by reference. This is however summarised with reference toFIG. 44.

FIGS. 35 to 43 illustrate an alternative to the A-frame 2707 suspensionsystem described in FIGS. 27 to 29. According to the further embodiment,the lens assemblies 106 and support structures 111, 100 are suspendedfrom a catenary 1501, 1502 which, in turn, is suspended upon columns3500 extending vertically upward from the ground 2601. As with theprevious embodiment, each crane block 300 positioned between secondarysupports 100 provides the suspension coupling for the verticallyextending cable 300 that is in turn connected to an upper crane 3503being for example a drive motor and spool. FIG. 35 illustratesschematically the mechanism for lateral movement via displacement cables3007 in the east-west direction and cables 3201 extending in thenorth-south direction, with each respective cable being associated witha respective pivoting stanchion 3100, 3200 and acted upon by at leastone winch or driven cable winding mechanism 3102.

FIG. 36 illustrates further embodiments of the suspension system of FIG.35 in which each lens assembly 106 is suspended from a girder 3600 whichis in turn supported by the vertical columns 3500. The girder 3600 maybe held in position by cabling 3602 connected to a respective winch 3102mounted at the same plane (at a similar height) to girder 3600.Alternatively, positional anchorage may be provided by cabling 3602attached to the ground 2601 and also coupled or acted upon by a cabletensioner, tightener or winch 3102. According to the embodiment of FIG.36, the lenses 106 may be suspended between adjacent columns 3500 in theannual (north-south) direction. Alternatively and referring to FIG. 41,the lenses 106 may be suspended in-line with the columns 3500 via anoverhead girder 4100 or catenary 3501 as illustrated in FIGS. 35 and 40.If suspended by a catenary 3501, an intermediate thrust girder 4000 mayextend between upper regions of columns 3500 to prevent columns 3500collapsing inwardly due to weight of assemblies 106 and supports 111,100. Alternatively and with reference to FIG. 42, the thrust girder 4000may be omitted and positional securement of columns 3500 provided bytensioning cables 3602 extending from the upper region of each column3500 and anchored at the ground 2601 where tension is created andmaintained by tensioning device 3102.

Referring to FIGS. 36 and 39, vertical displacement of the array oflenses 106 is provided by respective cranes 3503 mounted at uppermostgirder 3600 or catenary 3501. Each crane 3503 is coupled to neighbouringcranes of the same row via interconnecting coupling cable 3601.Accordingly, a common drive mechanism may be used to drive verticaldisplacement of each lens 106 within the assembly. Alternatively, eachcrane 3503 may comprise separate drive components.

Referring to FIG. 38, to enable the required lateral displacement oflenses 106 each column 3500 is configured to pivot from position B toposition C in the diurnal direction (east to west). The pivotingmovement of columns 3500 is required in order to reduce the footprintarea of the array of lenses at a particular geographical location. Thealternative to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 38 would be toincrease the lateral space in the east-west direction between columns3500. As indicated however, this would increase the footprint size ofthe apparatus which may be undesirable. Depending upon the suspensionposition of the lenses with respect to columns 3500 in the annualdirection (north-south) columns 3500 may also be required to pivot inthis annual direction to avoid contact of the lens components 300, 100with the columns 3500.

Additionally, to reduce the loading forces at regions of the apparatuswhen the columns 3500 are pivoted from position B to position C, crane3503 may be configured to displace laterally from position A to positionB coincidentally. FIG. 43 illustrates a possible mechanism to achievethis lateral displacement 4301 as columns 3500 pivot 4302 to an inclinedposition 4303. In particular, crane 3503 may be suspended at a catenary3502 which, in turn, is suspended by spools or pulleys 4300 which aredriven by appropriately positioned motors or winches (not shown).

This lateral movement of crane 3501 ensures suspension cable 301 remainsvertical or near vertical during diurnal movement of the lens 106 totrack the position of the sun 3800 and ensure solar radiation 3107 iscontinuously focused towards target 3100 during daylight hours.

Referring to FIGS. 37A and 37B, columns 3500 via cables 3007 and 3201are configured to move laterally in directions A-A and B-B. Asillustrated, crane block 300 is of a sufficient width such that cables3007 extend either side of columns 3500. Accordingly, crane block 300may be sized to provide the required clearance between columns 3500 andcables 3007. Via stanchions 3100, movement laterally in the directionA-A of both the columns 3500 and crane blocks 300 is synchronised so asto ensure that cables 3007 do not touch columns 3500. Columns 3500 arealso configured to pivot in the direction B-B. However, the lateralmovement in the B-B direction is not synchronised to the motion of thecrane blocks 300. That is, the crane blocks 300 are not always centralbetween the columns 3500 according to the present embodiment.

As will be appreciated, the lens assemblies 106 and associatedcomponents 111, 100 and 300 may be suspended or supported by anysuitable mechanism capable of enabling each lens 106 to move laterallyin the east-west (x) and north-south (y) directions, a perpendicularvertical (z) direction and diurnal rotation through 140° and annualrotation through approximately 50°. The support and suspension systemmust also be configured to allow the through-flow of air in order towithstand wind sheer forces incident on the apparatus.

Suitable mechanical actuation apparatus for the lens assemblies 106 maycomprise rack and pinion mechanisms, chains, belts, cables, actuationrams (including pneumatic, hydraulic and other fluid operated rams andpistons), servo controlled mechanisms, concertina assemblies, telescopicactuators, rail and wheel assemblies, catenaries and suspension cablesystems, magnetic and electromagnetic rotational and translationalmovement components and the like.

Referring to FIG. 44, the present lens actuation apparatus is configuredfor use with apparatus and methods to collect and transfer solar energyfor power generation. Such power generation apparatus utilising solarradiation 3107 as an energy source may comprise a gas (or liquid) phaseheat transfer medium that flows in contact with the target or pluralityof targets 3100. The target or plurality of targets 3100 form part of aheat transfer network 4400 which is coupled to, for example, a heatenergy storage device 4401, a heat exchanger 4402 and/or turbine 4404 toprovide on-demand supply of electricity both during and optionallybetween solar energy collection periods. The conduit network 4400contains the gas phase working fluid and allows the fluid to flow incontact with the targets 3100 such that the working fluid is heated bythe targets 3100 as it flows past.

The heat storage device 4401 is connected in fluid communication withthe targets 3100 by the conduit network 4400 which is configured toreceive the heated working fluid. The storage device 4401 comprises aheat storage material 4406 (optionally stone or a natural mineral butalso including synthetic aggregate) to store the heat energy receivedfrom the working fluid. Typically, each target 3100 comprises a heattransfer body positioned in the flow path of the working fluid as itflows through the target 3100. Thermal insulation (not shown) is alsoprovided around the targets 3100 and fluid network 4400, and heat store4401, to ensure minimum energy loss through conduction. Suitable valves4408 and working fluid circulation fans 4407 control the flow of theworking fluid around the network 4400. The working fluid heated bylenses 106 is coupled to the working fluid within the heat exchangernetwork 4403 which is in turn fed to the turbine 4404. An electricitygenerator 4405 is then coupled and powered by turbine 4404. According tofurther embodiments, an intermediate heat exchanger may be positionedbetween conduit network 4400 and heat store 4401 such that the workingfluid within heat store 4401 is different to that that flows througheach target 3100. Additionally, an embodiment of the present inventionmay not comprise the heat store 4401 and may simply comprise a pluralityof heat exchangers 4402 in fluid communication with a working fluid thatflows through, around or in thermal contact with targets 3100.

The present apparatus is suitable to create a grid network or array ofmoveable lenses 106 positioned above respective targets 3100 andinstalled at geographical locations with high solar radiation andavailable land space. The present apparatus is typically ground mounted.However, further embodiments may comprise additional floatation devicesor water submerged pylons and support structures to enable the presentapparatus to be geographically located over water and in particular thesea.

1. Solar energy concentrating apparatus comprising: an array of lensesto receive and to concentrate solar radiation towards a plurality oftargets; at least one lens support structure to moveably mount each lensof the array to receive the solar radiation; a first lateral movementmechanism to move the lenses in a first lateral direction relative tothe targets; a second lateral movement mechanism to move the lenses in asecond lateral direction relative to the targets; a third lateralmovement mechanism to move the lenses in a direction up and downrelative to the targets; a first rotational movement mechanism to rotatethe lenses about a first axis extending substantially in the secondlateral direction; and at least one drive means to drive the lensmovement mechanisms.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising asecond rotational movement mechanism to rotate each lens about a secondaxis extending in the first lateral direction.
 3. The apparatus asclaimed in claim 1 wherein the lens support structure comprises aprimary support having a circumferential ring to mount to the lens, asupport shaft extending centrally through the lens and support cablesextending from the central shaft to the circumferential ring.
 4. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein the lens support structurecomprises a secondary support to mount the primary support, thesecondary support comprising cables extending around the primarysupport.
 5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the array oflenses is arranged in rows of lenses to form a grid network of lenseswith rows in the first lateral direction and rows in the second lateraldirection.
 6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein each lens ofthe array comprises a plurality of Fresnel lenses extending in at leasttwo substantially parallel planes, one above the other so as to providean air flow gap between the planes of the lenses.
 7. The apparatus asclaimed in claim 5 wherein the first lateral movement mechanismcomprises cables extending in the first lateral direction and pulleywheels and/or spools and stanchions positioned at the end of each row oflenses in the first lateral direction, the stanchions coupled to one ofthe cables in the first lateral direction such that when the drive meansis actuated the stanchions pivot in the first lateral direction and thelenses move laterally in the first lateral direction.
 8. The apparatusas claimed in claim 5 wherein the second lateral movement mechanismcomprises cables extending in the second lateral direction and pulleywheels and/or spools and stanchions positioned at the end of each row oflenses in the second lateral direction, the stanchions coupled to one ofthe cables in the second lateral direction such that when the drivemeans is actuated the stanchions pivot in the second lateral directionand the lenses move laterally in the second lateral direction.
 9. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 5 wherein the third lateral movementmechanism comprises cables and pulley wheels and/or spools.
 10. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 5 wherein the first rotational movementmechanism comprises cables and pulley wheels and/or spools.
 11. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 7 wherein the drive means for the first,second and third lateral movement mechanisms comprise a motorised winch,pulley wheel or spool to shorten and lengthen each of the respectivecables.
 12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein the secondrotational movement mechanism comprises cables extending substantiallyin the second lateral direction and pulley wheels and/or spools.
 13. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein the drive for the first andsecond rotational movement mechanisms comprise at least one motor and adrive shaft coupled to at least one of the pulley wheels and/or spoolsto drive movement of the cables and impart rotational movement to thelens via at least one of the pulley wheels or spools.
 14. The apparatusas claimed in claim 1 wherein the lens support structure comprisessupport columns extending upwardly from the ground and a catenarysuspended from the columns, the array of lenses being suspended from thecatenary.
 15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 7 wherein the supportstructure comprises a crane block mounted between the lenses in thesecond lateral direction, the crane block being connected to the cablesof the first, second and third lateral movement mechanisms to translatemovement imparted by the drive means to move the lenses of the array.16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 15 wherein the crane blockcomprises means to mount at least one pulley wheel.
 17. The crane blockas claimed in claim 15, when dependent on claim 4 wherein the craneblock is connected to the secondary support structure.
 18. The apparatusas claimed in claim 4 wherein the secondary support structure is coupledto the primary support structure via a shaft, each lens configured torotate about each respective shaft in the first lateral direction.
 19. Amethod of concentrating solar radiation comprising: receiving andconcentrating solar radiation towards of a plurality of targets using anarray of lenses; supporting the array of lenses using a moveable supportstructure; moving the array of lenses in a first lateral directionrelative to the targets using a first lateral movement mechanism; movingthe array of lenses in a second lateral direction relative to thetargets using a second lateral movement mechanism; moving the lenses ina direction up and down relative to the targets using a third lateralmovement mechanism; rotating the lenses about a first axis extendingsubstantially in the second lateral direction using a first rotationalmovement mechanism; and driving the movement mechanisms to move thelenses in the lateral and rotational directions.
 20. Solar energycollection apparatus comprising: solar energy concentrating apparatus asclaimed in claim 1; a conduit network to contain a gas phase workingfluid and allow the fluid to flow in contact with the targets such thatthe working fluid is heated by the targets.
 21. The collection apparatusas claimed in claim 20 further comprising a heat storage deviceconnected in fluid communication to the targets by the conduit networkto receive the heated working fluid, the storage device comprising aheat storage material to store the heat energy received from the workingfluid.
 22. The collection apparatus as claimed in claim 20 wherein theconduit network comprises metal, ceramic and/or clay based piping. 23.Apparatus for converting solar energy to electrical energy comprising:solar energy collection apparatus as claimed in claim 20; a heatexchanger connected in fluid communication with the conduit network toreceive the heated working fluid and to transfer the received heatenergy; a turbine coupled to a heat exchanger; and an electric generatorcoupled to the turbine to generate electricity.
 24. Solar energyconcentrating apparatus having a lens support structure comprising: anannular or polygonal frame configured to surround a concentrating lensat an outer perimeter region of the lens; a plurality of radial spokesmounted at the frame and extending from the frame to a mount positionedsubstantially centrally relative to the annular frame and the radialspokes.
 25. Solar energy concentrating apparatus having a support frameto mount a concentrating lens, the lens comprising: at least one firstlens plate extending in a first plane; at least one second lens plateextending in a second plane, the second lens plate being spatiallyseparated from the first lens plate in a direction perpendicular to theplanes to provide a gap between the first and second lens plates. 26.Solar energy concentrating apparatus to support a concentrating lens,the apparatus comprising: a plurality of elongate support memberscomprising one or a plurality of cables extending between a first mountand a second mount; wherein a separation distance between the members ina direction perpendicular to the direction between the first and secondmounts increases away from each of the first and second mounts to reacha maximum separation region; wherein a concentrating lens mountedsubstantially at the maximum separation region and is suspended betweenthe first and second mounts by the support members.
 27. Solar energyconcentrating apparatus to mount at least one concentrating lens todirect concentrated solar radiation from the lens onto a target, theapparatus comprising: a moveable stanchion mounted at a first end by apivoting or moveable joint to allow a second end of the stanchion tomove laterally in x, y and z coordinates relative to the first end; atleast one lens connecting member extending between a region towards thesecond end of the stanchion and a region close to or at lens such thatmovement of the second end of the stanchion is translated to provide acorresponding movement of the lens.
 28. Solar energy concentratingapparatus to move at least one concentrating lens to direct theconcentrated solar radiation from the lens onto a target, the apparatuscomprising: a suspension system configured to suspend at least one lensabove the ground, at least part of the suspension system extending abovethe lens relative to the ground; a crane mechanism positioned so as toraise and lower the lens relative to the suspension system.
 29. Solarenergy concentrating apparatus to move at least one concentrating lensto direct concentrated solar radiation from the lens onto a target, theapparatus comprising: a lens support structure to mount a lens moveablyrelative to a target; a first elongate track mounted above the groundand extending in a first direction; a second elongate track mountedabove the ground and extending in a second direction transverse orperpendicular to the first direction; wherein the lens, via the supportstructure, is capable of movement laterally in the first direction alongthe first track and in the second direction along the second track suchthat movement of the lens along the first and second tracks isconfigured to orientate the lens to direct concentrated solar radiationfrom the lens onto the target.
 30. Solar energy concentrating apparatusto move at least one concentrating lens to direct concentrated solarradiation from the lens to a target, the apparatus comprising: asuspension system configured to suspend at least one lens above theground; the suspension system comprising: a plurality of columnsupstanding from the ground; a beam or catenary system mounted upon thecolumns and capable of suspending the lens above the ground.